UCB has recently shut down its last permanent theater and training center. I asked people to share what UCB NY meant to them. Featuring Molly Gaebe, Ian Dyer, Ryan Barker, Rachel Taenzler, Pat Baer, Sonya Saepoff, Ray Cordova, Harsha Vardhan Dasarathy, Bert James, Elisa Ballou, Paris Adkins, Liz Noth, Alex French, Jon Marballi, Betsy Helmer, Dan LoPreto, Joe Leonardo, Jaime Lutz, Alejandro Cardona, Brett White, Aaron Kheifets, Johnna Scrabis, Mark Dowling, Maritza Montanez, Billy Galante, and Nicholas Guestella. Hosted by Curtis Retherford.

Join Maritza Montañez, Liz Noth, and Chris Scott, along with other improv experts, as they dive into invaluable advice for first-year improvisers. They stress the importance of attending shows for learning and understanding the craft. Tips include the necessity of regular practice, embracing vulnerability on stage, and building a supportive community. The conversation also touches on navigating sensitivity and the joy of diverse experiences in improv, encouraging newcomers to express their unique voices and foster connections.

This episode focuses on a fun, but often difficult form, the Movie. One of the original forms developed by Del Close, the Movie is not performed as regularly as some other forms, but it can be rewarding to learn and get good at, and it’s easy for audiences to follow. Featuring David Bluvband, James Dwyer, John Timothy, Rudy Behrens, and Kevin Mullaney. Hosted by Liz Noth and Curtis Retherford.

This episode focuses on the form of many names, the Spokane / Pretty Flower / Delicate Little Flower / Gadget / Family Guy / so on and so on. We discuss how to do the form, and why it may be a great fit for your team or why it may not be. Featuring Sebastian Conelli, Jake Cornell, Patrick Noth, Maritza Montañez, Kelsey Bailey, Jesse Lee, and Lindsay Calleran. Hosted by Curtis Retherford.

In this lively discussion, coaches Jenny St. Angelo, Sebastian Conelli, Lindsay Calleran, Johnna Scrabis, Liz Noth, and Will Hines dive into the art of structuring effective practice sessions. They explore the balance between physicality and vocal exercises, revealing how silent scenes can spark creativity and emotional connections. The conversation also touches on the challenges of fostering team dynamics, offering insights into feedback techniques and the importance of a supportive environment for blossoming improv talent.

This engaging discussion features Bill DiPiero, a coaching strategies expert, alongside innovative coach Achilles Stametalaky, and rising star Lily Du, focused on athlete development. They explore the informal aspects of coaching in improv, emphasizing the distinction between coaching and directing. The conversation dives into commitment's role in performance, the significance of team dynamics, and the transformative power of constructive feedback. Listeners will appreciate anecdotes highlighting the importance of trust, communication, and collaboration in coaching.

In this engaging discussion, John Timothy, Beth Appel, Ashley Ward, and others share transformative notes that shaped their improvisational journeys. They explore the power of constructive feedback and its role in personal growth. The conversation highlights overcoming self-doubt, the importance of authenticity in performances, and the dynamics of effective comedic scenes. Insights on setting boundaries and maintaining organized notes for improvisation enrich the dialogue, revealing how these experiences deepen their craft and enhance collaboration in the art form.

In this engaging discussion, talented improvisors like Nicole Drespel, a passionate improvisor, and Kevin Hines, experienced in the craft, share their love for improv. They talk about personal growth, community bonds, and the thrill of performing spontaneously. The conversation explores improv as a transformative art, providing joy and a healing outlet for anxiety. Speakers reflect on their journeys, emphasizing the joy of collaboration, playful exploration, and the ongoing pursuit of mastery that keeps them engaged in the world of improv.

Join Achilles Stamatelaky, Will Hines, and a star-studded cast of improvisers as they dive deep into the clichés that plague the genre. They tackle tired tropes, emphasizing the need for authenticity and emotional depth in performances. Discussions span from the oversimplification of character dynamics to the importance of physicality in comedy. The group advocates for fresh perspectives, highlighting gender roles and the gaps between real life and improv. Expect a thought-provoking exploration of how to elevate the craft beyond its clichés.

An improv jam is basically an open mic for improv: anyone who goes can throw their name in a bucket to do scenes with the jam hosts. They can be stressful and intimidating, but they’re also a great way to get over nervousness over being on stage, to learn how to play with people of many different skill levels, and to get to know more people in your improv community. Featuring Devin Ritchie, X Mayo, Lydia Hensler, Kelsey Bailey, and Cathryn Mudon. Hosted by Curtis Retherford.